Promoting CommUNITY at the Eugene Family YMCA
Overview
This inspiring educational series invites us to explore ways to build awareness, compassion and kindness in our everyday lives. Each month centers around a new theme, offering opportunities to connect beyond our differences, foster meaningful relationships, and grow as better neighbors and community members. Hear from experts who bring fresh insights on each month's theme, helping us better understand and support one another. Together, let’s gain the skills to be active allies and create a stronger, more unified community. Join us and be part of something meaningful! You're invited to join just one session or multiple sessions throughout the year!
Y membership not required to attend. Please sign up for a FREE COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP, which grants you access to free programs like this, before your register for a session. If you have any questions, please reach out to the event coordinator, Cass Averill.
Drop-ins welcome! No prior attendance required—join us for any that interest you.
Upcoming Themes
| MONTH | DATE | TIME | TOPIC | REGISTER |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| November | Nov. 18 | 5 to 7 p.m. | Interfaith Dialogue and Religious Inclusion | REGISTER |
Non-Y members are welcome to attend any or all of these sessions, but will need to sign up for a free Community Membership in order to register.
Full Series Overview
- February: Understanding Racial Equity
- March: Gender Equity & Empowerment
- April: Disability Awareness & Advocacy
- May: Ageism and Age Discrimination Awareness
- September: The History & Experience of Refugees & Immigrants in America
- October: LGBTQIA+ Inclusion
- November: Interfaith Dialogue and Religious Inclusion
Next Meeting
Date: Tuesday, Nov. 18
Time: 5 to 7 p.m.; arrive at 5 for time for mingling, food and drinks before the talk begins at 5:30 p.m.
Topic: Interfaith Dialogue and Religious Inclusion
About: Join us for an evening of open hearts and thoughtful conversation as we explore the beauty of Interfaith Dialogue. We’ll begin with time to connect and enjoy free snacks and refreshments in a warm, welcoming space. Then, together we’ll reflect on how faith, spirituality and personal belief shape the way we see the world—and one another. Through stories, questions and genuine listening, we’ll uncover how dialogue can bridge divides and deepen connection. Come discover how to have conversations that open minds, soften hearts, and invite us to learn from one another rather than convince one another.
November Panelists
We’re honored to welcome a diverse panel of faith leaders and community voices who bring deep experience and perspective to the topic of interfaith dialogue:
- Rabbi Ruhi, representing the Jewish tradition
- Ib Hamide, representing the Muslim tradition
- Vida Ellins, representing the Baha’i tradition
- Pastor Eric Dull, representing the Christian (Lutheran) tradition
Together, these panelists will engage in a guided discussion exploring how their faith communities approach connection, compassion, and understanding across differences. Through personal stories and shared reflections, they’ll illuminate the beauty and impact of interfaith dialogue—and how listening across traditions can enrich us all.
Facilitated by Brian Steffen
The conversation will be facilitated by our very own Brian Steffen, CEO of the Eugene Family YMCA.
Brian has led the Eugene Family YMCA since 2018, following over a decade of leadership in nonprofit and community service organizations across Montana. A lifelong advocate for connection, inclusion, and community well-being, Brian brings thoughtful guidance to conversations that strengthen our shared humanity.
Optional Reading
God Is Not One: The Eight Rival Religions That Run the World by Stephen R. Prothero
If you’d like to explore the topic ahead of time, we recommend God Is Not One: The Eight Rival Religions That Run the World, by Stephen R. Prothero. The book examines eight major world religions, highlighting their unique beliefs, practices and cultural impact, and emphasizes how recognizing these differences can enrich interfaith dialogue and global understanding.
Take our Survey!
Whether you’ve attended one of our Promoting CommUNITY events or just caught a glimpse of the series on our screens or website, we’d love to hear from you! Promoting CommUNITY is about coming together to build awareness, compassion and kindness—especially toward those whose experiences may be different from our own. Your voice matters in this work. We’re currently planning the next round of events, and your feedback will help us make them even more impactful, welcoming and accessible to all.
Take a moment to share your thoughts in our quick survey—it only takes a few minutes, and every response makes a difference and helps guide our next steps.
